Employment and Addison's or Adrenal Insufficiency With support and guidance from our Clinical Advisory Panel, and key sources of information on employment issues, we have put together some information to help you navigate the world of employment when it is impacted by Addison's disease or adrenal insufficiency. We have information for both employees with a diagnosis and their employers and highlight the importance of working together for the best outcome for everyone. Understanding Addison's Disease and Adrenal Insufficiency in the Workplace Living with Addison's and adrenal insufficiency can present unique challenges, especially in a work environment. It is important for both employees and employers to understand the potential impacts, and to work together, with empathy and understanding of each other's needs, to create a supportive and productive work environment. Are Addison's and adrenal insufficiency disabilities? Adrenal insufficiency, including Addison's disease, is a rare condition and an invisible disability. People with Addison’s and adrenal insufficiency are covered by the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010, or if you live in Northern Ireland, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. This is because they are life-long conditions that can seriously affect a person’s ability to do normal day-to-day activities and are fatal if left untreated. It is important to note that not everyone with Addison's and adrenal insufficiency will identify as having a disability, and not everyone will want to share their diagnosis with their employer or colleagues. Common Workplace Challenges There are various potential challenges, which are very much dependent on the type of job, the demands of the work, and the individual health and needs of the employee. Some common challenges are: Managing Stress: Stressful situations can be a trigger for adrenal crisis, a life-threatening emergency. Following a regular and time-critical medical routine: shift work, or certain work patterns and commitments can make it difficult to follow a strict medication regimen Emergency preparedness: an adrenal crisis can be triggered by a number of different scenarios, which may take place in the workplace as well as at home. It is important that an employee with adrenal insufficiency has support in being prepared to manage an adrenal crisis effectively, and that an employer (and potentially work colleagues) are confident that they have the knowledge to offer that support. Learn more about preparing for an adrenal crisis. Time off for medical monitoring and support: particularly during the newly diagnosed phase of Addison's and adrenal insufficiency, it is necessary to attend regular medical appointments. People with more complex health needs may have an increased need for time off work to attend essential appointments. Working Together: Best Practice in Employment There are some good practices for both employees and employers to follow together: Clear and regular communication. Consideration of individual requirements. A willingness of all parties to discuss and negotiate to reach a practicable and reasonable outcome. Regular review with assigned responsibilities and timescales for action points. Having and abiding by a policy on disability leave which makes it clear whether leave is disability leave or sick leave. Respecting confidentiality as regards who, if anyone, is made aware of an employee’s disability, and how. Please note: it is recommended that the named first aider is made aware of the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency so as to be able to respond effectively in an emergency (adrenal crisis). For more detailed information, please explore our specific employee and employer pages: For employees Visit our Working when you have adrenal insufficiency page to ensure you have the support you need. Working when you have Addison's or adrenal insufficiency For employers Visit our Information for employers page to ensure you are following best practice, and understand how to offer support. When your employee has Addison's or adrenal insufficiency Whether you're newly diagnosed or have lived with the condition for years - please join our community and support our cause! You'll receive the latest expert advice, guidance and ADSHG news, whilst being part of our inspiring and supportive community. Become a member today! Join the ADSHG Connect on social media! Follow us on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok and YouTube. Manage Cookie Preferences